Monroe organizations hosting first ChiliBowl at East County Senior Center

Chili will be big business in Monroe next week during a fundraising competition at the East County Senior Center.

Hosted by and benefitting the Sky Valley Food Bank, Monroe Chamber of Commerce, senior center and Monroe Boys and Girls Club, the ChiliBowl runs 5-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 31.

Local businesses will compete not only with chili-making skills, but bribery, according to a chamber news release.

“They will do almost anything to win your vote!” the release states. “So come prepared to have a good time and feel the heat.”

The free event invites attendees to sample chili entries and vote on their favorites, at $1 a vote or one can of food.

The official judges panel includes Monroe Mayor Geoffrey Thomas and Snohomish County Councilmember Sam Low.

Jeff Rasmussen from the Boys and Girls Club will be making the six trophies that go to local businesses that earn distinctions that include “Most Original Chili” “People’s Choice Chili” and “Hottest Chili.”

The beer garden will be open 5-7 p.m.

Local businesses can register at choosemonroe.com, and also find a list of competitors, judges, sponsors and additional even information.